J&K&L High Court Cautions Advocates Against 'Vulgar Activities' At Bar Events Following Kanpur Bar Dance Incident

The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a circular cautioning advocates against participation in indecorous or inappropriate activities at Bar Association events, following a viral video of a Bar function where objectionable performances were conducted.The Circular was issued by the Office of the Registrar General after a video surfaced showing an event organised under the aegis of the Kanpur Bar Association, where performances in revealing attire were conducted, and members of the Bar were seen encouraging and recording the same.The Registrar General observed that such conduct is inconsistent with the standards expected of members of the legal profession, noting that “the legal profession is a noble and pious calling, entrusted with upholding the rule of law and maintaining the dignity of the justice delivery system.” The Circular further recorded that the incident had been strongly deprecated by the Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association, which termed the occurrence as “shameful, reprehensible, and utterly disgraceful,” and noted that Hon'ble the Chief Justice of India had also taken a serious view of the matter. Senior members of the Bar were advised to ensure adherence to professional standards in all forums, including social engagements linked to the profession.The Circular refers to a widely circulated video depicting an event held under the banner of a Bar Association, where performances considered inappropriate were conducted in the presence of advocates, some of whom were seen recording and encouraging the same. In light of the concerns arising from the incident, the High Court deemed it necessary to reiterate the ethical obligations and standards governing advocates.The High Court emphasised that advocates, as officers of the Court, are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct not only within court premises but also in their social and professional interactions.It directed strict adherence to the Standards of Professional Conduct and Etiquette as prescribed under Part VI, Chapter II of the Bar Council of India Rules framed under Section 49(1)(c) of the Advocates Act, 1961.In this regard, the Circular emphasised that advocates are required “to maintain dignity, sobriety and propriety in all professional and social engagements, particularly in events organised within Bar Associations or under their auspices.” The Court further cautioned advocates against associating with activities that may bring disrepute to the profession, stating that they must “refrain from participating in, promoting or associating with any activity, event or form of entertainment that is unethical, vulgar, or culturally inappropriate and which may undermine the dignity of the legal profession.” The Circular also directed Bar Associations within the jurisdiction of the High Court to ensure that events conducted under their banner uphold the decorum and prestige of the institution and the legal profession at all times.The High Court directed that the Circular be circulated among all stakeholders for strict compliance and clarified that any deviation from the prescribed standards of conduct may invite appropriate action in accordance with law.Click Here To Read/Download Circular

J&K&L High Court Cautions Advocates Against 'Vulgar Activities' At Bar Events Following Kanpur Bar Dance Incident

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J&K&L High Court Cautions Advocates Against 'Vulgar Activities' At Bar Events Following Kanpur Bar Dance Incident

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